The Association of Resident Doctors, Federal Capital Territory Administration (ARD FCTA), has embarked on a three-day warning strike over unpaid salaries, allowances, and other unmet demands, crippling operations in government hospitals across Abuja.
The strike, which began Wednesday, follows a three-week ultimatum issued last year, according to ARD FCTA President Dr. George Ebong, who addressed journalists during a press briefing in Abuja.
Dr. Ebong expressed frustration over the government’s neglect of hospitals and doctors’ welfare in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), describing healthcare workers as “abandoned projects.” He called on FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to urgently intervene to prevent an indefinite shutdown of hospitals.
“The three-day strike is effective across all government hospitals in Abuja, including facilities in Wuse, Asokoro, Maitama, Kubwa, Zuba, Kwali, Abaji, and Nyanya,” Dr. Ebong stated.
He explained that despite repeated dialogue with the government and a two-week extension after the initial ultimatum, no tangible actions have been taken. “We expected at least the minimum effort, such as payment of six months’ worth of unpaid arrears to doctors, but nothing has been done,” he said.
Dr. Ebong urged the minister to prioritize the welfare of healthcare workers alongside infrastructure projects. “Doctors have been neglected for too long. Just as roads are being constructed, the welfare of doctors should also be considered,” he added.
The association has warned that if their demands are not met after the three-day strike, an indefinite strike may follow.
This development comes after a December 2024 warning by ARD FCTA of an impending shutdown if their grievances remained unaddressed. The ongoing strike underscores mounting frustration among medical professionals and raises concerns over the state of healthcare delivery in the nation’s capital.
